I. Introduction

a. Overview

This module is designed to help English education majors and practicing teachers understand how to effectively teach the comprehension of an argumentative text. Many strategies support this goal. In this module we will focus more attention on a research-based practice, the double-entry notebook--or DEN.

b. Essential Questions

By the end of this module, you should be able to answer the following questions:

What are the characteristics and elements of effective argumentative and narrative texts?

How do you distinguish between an argumentative and narrative text?

What critical vocabulary is associated with an argument or narrative?

How do you prepare to read an argument or narrative?

How do you analyze an argument or narrative?

What are the procedures for teaching the double-entry notebook and Directed Reading-Thinking Activity?

c. Why use arguments in language arts?

One of the six shifts that accompany the Common Core State Standards, states that students carefully read, grasp, and evaluate arguments. Additionally, students should be able to

Identify and trace the development of an author’s argument, purpose, position, or perspective to aid comprehension.

Make reasonable statements and draw conclusions that are supported with evidence from the text.

Identify an argument’s supporting details and explain that sometimes authors write to convince readers of something.

Note how the structural features and rhetorical devices affect the arguments presented.